SmartDog Classes- updated

Helping Puppies Become SmartDogs

At SmartDog, all our lead instructors are certified professionals who love helping people become great dog trainers.

We know that a safe, well-designed environment makes all the difference. Both our North Saanich and SPCA Victoria locations are purpose-built for dog training — with no-slip floors, secure barriers, and thoughtful layouts to help every dog (and dog owner) succeed.

Our 7-acre McTavish Training Center offers multiple fully fenced play areas, flexible classroom setups, and tie-off points for extra hands during puppy classes. When you choose SmartDog, you’re training in a space designed for real progress.

SmartDog Puppy Classes

Learn how to handle puppy challenges like biting, chewing, jumping, barking, and leash pulling — while building solid skills in sit, stay, recall, and calm settling on a bed or in a crate.

Our certified behaviour consultant and professional trainers guide you through science-based methods that make training clear, positive, and effective. You’ll understand how your dog thinks and how to prevent problems before they start.

Missed a spot? If the class you’re hoping to join is currently full or no classes are listed, please contact us below to join the waitlist. We’d love to have you and your pup join us in class!

Join Our Waitlist

Give your puppy the best start with guided play sessions led by our certified behaviour consultant with over 20 years of experience. Learn to read canine body language, understand what your puppy is communicating, and know when (and why) to step in or step out of play.

Classes are held at our McTavish location, outdoors in a large, fully fenced area or indoors in our covered barn, depending on the weather. Small groups ensure plenty of personal attention — up to two owners per puppy.

For puppies 9–17 weeks old with at least their first set of vaccinations. Perfect for all young pups, especially those who are quiet or shy.

Is My Dog a Good Fit for In-Person Classes?
It was really great to have support in an environment where everyone was enthusiastic about their dogs. We recommend you to everyone who asks!
Paz's people
We really liked the professionalism. I was blown away by what I learned! Thanks so much!
Bean's person
All the classes were run very well. Great information and we felt set up for success with Cedar. Thank you!
Cedar's people
What is best about Smart Dog Training is the instructors. They are down to earth and make us laugh but also give clear instructions!.
Misha's people
Sherry is very good at explaining things and very patient—she is a great animal person and a great people person.
Mystic's person
We learned more in the first two classes than we did in an entire program somewhere  else. We are very glad we chose SmartDog.
Luke's people
We read some great material and watched some on-line videos but the feedback that SmartDog coaches gave us during classes was invaluable and really made the difference.
Lily's person

SmartDog Intermediate & Advanced Classes

For dogs who’ve completed SmartPuppy Basic, this class builds on your existing skills with new challenges and distractions. You’ll strengthen recall, distance work, and your dog’s ability to stay and settle on a mat, bed, or in a crate.

Learn how to handle training mistakes, reduce reliance on treats, and develop stronger, more reliable responses from your dog even in real-world situations.

Note: If you have not completed the SmartPuppy/SmartDog Basic class through SmartDog Training, please contact our office. You may be required to take a private session before signing up to assess your dog’s skills and address any gaps. 

Missed a spot? If the class you’re hoping to join is currently full or no classes are listed, please contact us below to join the waitlist.

Join Our Waitlist

For dogs who’ve completed SmartDog Intermediate. Take your training outdoors across five fully fenced acres of varied terrain at our McTavish location. Practice your dog’s skills with both staged and real-life distractions, including advanced recall — even when playing with other dogs. This class requires trainer pre-approval.

Note: Your dog must complete SmartDog Intermediate before joining this class.

Before You Join Our Classes

Puppies are welcome in our in-person classes as long as they have had their first set of shots. Early socialization is key to raising a confident, well-adjusted dog — you can read more about it in the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s Position Statement on Puppy Socialization. Our class numbers are limited to provide the highest quality instruction.

If you choose to cancel your spot, we require at least 4 days’ notice for a refund (minus a $50 administration fee).

No refunds are available if cancellation is made less than 4 days before the class starts.